Carbon networks based on benzocyclynes. 6. Synthesis of graphyne substructures via directed alkyne metathesis

Intramolecular ring closing alkyne metathesis afforded the graphyne biscyclyne (3) in high macrocyclization yield and good overall yield. This methodology also furnished the tris[12]cyclyne 4, which contains the longest linear diphenylacetylene conjugation pathway for any graphyne substructure based on the tribenzo[12]cyclyne core.